A 51-year-old pastor and Jiu-Jitsu instructor from Hollister, California, has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of at least four children. Emmanuel Marchica is being held on $17.5 million bail.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest on July 10, 2026, following a five-day investigation initiated on July 5 after the office received tips about ongoing sexual abuse involving a child. Investigators conducted interviews and identified additional victims, with statements suggesting abuse may have occurred as far back as 2012.
Marchica served as a pastor and led sermons at a community gathering center in the Hidden Valley Community of San Benito County at the time of his arrest. Authorities believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward and are urging anyone with information to contact the sheriff's office.
Detectives are investigating accusations that include various forms of inappropriate sexual contact, forced sexual acts, and child molestation. In addition to his roles as a pastor and Jiu-Jitsu instructor, Marchica has a history of owning businesses in the area, including bakeries and gyms where he offered physical and massage therapy services.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have been victimized by Marchica or has relevant information to contact Detective Janelli Arroyo at (831) 755-7261 or Detective Sergeant Nicholas Kennedy at (831) 755-3773.